Reimagining legal professionalism in Nigeria: the case for post-call pupillage and comparative reflections from the United Kingdom, Hungary and South Africa
Reimagining legal professionalism in Nigeria: the case for post-call pupillage and comparative reflections from the United Kingdom, Hungary and South Africa

Summary/Abstract: Nigeria is considering the introduction of a mandatory two-year post-Call pupillage in response to persistent concerns about professional competence, supervision, and early-career ethical lapses. Despite repeated endorsement by the Nigerian Bar Association, no national framework currently defines accreditation, remuneration, or assessment. This article examines whether a structured pupillage system can strengthen professional formation and reduce ethical risk. The study adopts a comparative socio-legal approach, drawing on statutory and regulatory materials from England and Wales, Hungary, and South Africa. It analyses how these jurisdictions regulate supervised practice through accreditation, monitoring, and assessment mechanisms. The analysis shows that ethical risk is not unique to Nigeria but is addressed in other jurisdictions through structured and supervised workplace training. Effective systems rely on paid placements, accountable supervision, verifiable work outputs, and regulatory oversight. These mechanisms shape professional judgment more reliably than examinations or disciplinary sanctions alone. The article proposes a Nigerian post-Call pupillage model under the authority of the Body of Benchers, incorporating accredited supervisors, a national stipend floor, structured task rotation, and transparent reporting. It concludes that a well-designed pupillage framework can enhance competence, widen access to the profession, and strengthen public confidence in legal practice.

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